Helium One Global Ltd (LON:HE1) is counting down to the start of a seismic exploration programme at the Rukwa project in Tanzania.
Mobilisation of the survey and line-clearing crews has begun, the company said in a statement.
The seismic programme will capture some 150 kilometres of data, to provide greater resolution over previously identified drill targets.
Results from the programme will be the final technical input prior to the start of Helium One's maiden drilling campaign which is slated to start in the second quarter.
"We are delighted to be progressing our Rukwa Helium Project with this next phase of exploration. It's an exciting time for the team at Helium One and for all our stakeholders, as this will be our largest on site mobilisation for several years,” said David Minchin, Helium One chief executive.
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“Data gathered from infill seismic will prove invaluable in refining drill targets and improving our knowledge of potential trap structures, leading to what we hope will be a 'game changing' drilling campaign in Q2 2021.”
The company noted that more than 30 people will be active on site for the seismic programme including local staff, surveyors, clearing crew and support staff.
It also noted that the preparation for the programme saw good co-operation between government departments, local communities and Helium One’s management. It meant that the critical work programme was ‘fast-tracked’, the company said.
"We look forward to continuing to work with local communities and government departments as we progress towards maiden exploration drilling,” Minchin added.
"Our work programme on the ground In Tanzania is timely and coincides with a significant growth in the Helium pricing as demand grows in critical areas.
“The last six months has seen the average price of helium imported to China reach $375/Mcf as Chinese demand for helium in manufacturing of semi-conductors and fibre-optic cables grows at 6% CAGR and in MRI demand grows at 8% CAGR.
“There is a requirement for a new source of primary helium to support high value 'next-gen' technological, medical and industrial applications which Helium One has the capacity to fulfil as we seek to develop our globally significant Rukwa deposit."